Answer

In Jain practice, after evening Pratikraman, one generally should not eat.

The main reason is that evening Pratikraman is usually done after taking the vow or discipline of Chauvihar / Ratri-bhojan tyag — giving up food and often water for the night.

Explanation

Pratikraman is a practice of:

• Repenting for mistakes committed during the day
• Asking forgiveness from living beings
• Renewing self-discipline
• Becoming more careful in thoughts, words, and actions

In the evening, Jains traditionally avoid eating after sunset because:

• At night, many tiny living beings may be harmed unknowingly.
• Eating at night increases carelessness and attachment to taste.
• Pratikraman is meant to end the day with purity, restraint, and awareness.

So, eating after evening Pratikraman would weaken the spiritual discipline taken during it.

Important Clarification

If someone has not taken Chauvihar or Tivihar, or if there is a genuine health reason, the matter may be handled differently according to one’s capacity and guidance from elders or a guru.

Also, morning Pratikraman is different. After morning Pratikraman, eating later in the day is generally allowed according to normal Jain rules and vows.

Spiritual Understanding

The purpose is not merely “not eating.” The deeper purpose is:

• Reducing himsa
• Controlling desires
• Ending the day in spiritual awareness
• Strengthening self-discipline

Takeaway

After evening Pratikraman, one should normally avoid eating because Pratikraman is connected with night restraint and purification of conduct. It helps a person close the day with care, repentance, and inner discipline.